Westside Digest

Santa Monica : Helicopter Noise Under Study

The study is looking at how many helicopters operate at the airport and whence they come, Director Henry Dittmar said in a report. The airport has received "a significant number" of complaints from residents about noise from helicopters, Dittmar said.

Many helicopters in the area may belong to law enforcement agencies or other organizations not related to the airport, he said. Only two helicopters are based at the airport, he said.

The airport is preparing a noise-abatement program specifically for airplanes.